Marijuana legalization advocates get their shot with lawmakers

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) - Lawmakers will hold a public hearing on a bill to legalize marijuana in Maine.

The Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee will hear testimony Friday on the bill, which is modeled on laws in Washington state and Colorado.

The bill sponsored by Democratic Rep. Diane Russell of Portland would legalize, tax and regulate the sale of marijuana for personal consumption for people over 21 years old. Adults could also grow up to six plants for personal consumption in an enclosed space.

The bill would set aside 10 percent of the marijuana tax revenue for enforcement; 10 percent for addiction treatment; and 5 percent for testing. If enacted by the Legislature and authorized by the governor this session, the bill would go to referendum on the November 2013 ballot.